BANGKOK, February 13th, 2026
In a big political development following Thailand’s general election on February 8th, the Pheu Thai Party has declared its readiness to support the Bhumjaithai Party as the core party in forming the next coalition government.
The announcement came after a key meeting held at Bhumjaithai Party headquarters around 3:35 p.m., where Bhumjaithai leader and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Yossanan Wongsa-sawat, Pheu Thai’s prime ministerial candidate, along with senior party figures including election director Suriya Jungrungreangkit, prominent leader Phumtham Wechayachai, and Pheu Thai secretary-general Prasert Jantararuangtong.The discussions focused on cooperation to establish a stable administration and advance national interests, amid Bhumjaithai’s strong showing in the recent polls.
Preliminary results indicate Bhumjaithai secured approximately 193 seats in the 500-member House of Representatives, positioning it as the largest party, while Pheu Thai placed third with around 74 seats. The reformist People’s Party came second but has indicated it will not join the government and will instead be opposition.
Following the talks, Anutin and Prasert addressed the media together. Prasert stated that Pheu Thai is prepared to back Bhumjaithai in leading the formation of the new government, expressing congratulations on Bhumjaithai’s electoral success and stressing the need to prevent a prolonged political vacuum.
Anutin described the meeting as an honor and said that, based on the emerging election outcomes, the two parties had reached an agreement for Pheu Thai to support Bhumjaithai as the core coalition leader. He stressed that past misunderstandings and conflicts, common in politics, should be set aside to allow both parties to work together for the country’s benefit. Anutin added that further details would be discussed moving forward, with plans to invite other parties in sequence, such as possibly Kla Tham and the Democrat Party, to build a broad and stable coalition.
This development marks a notable realignment, as Pheu Thai, historically associated with the Shinawatra family and populist policies, joins forces with the conservative, pro-establishment Bhumjaithai. The coalition could provide a clear parliamentary majority and pave the way for Anutin to continue as prime minister once the Election Commission officially certifies the results and parliament convenes.
Analysts note that this partnership reflects pragmatic politics in the wake of Bhumjaithai’s unexpected dominance, prioritizing governance stability over ideological differences.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
